Army studies impact of aviation noise on Mauna Kea

HONOLULU (AP) -- The Army has begun a study on the impact aviation noise may have at three proposed aircraft landing zones inside the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve.

U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii says it will conduct research through April 1 to assess the effects of the Army's possible high-altitude mountain training. The study is in addition to a previous environmental assessment that mistakenly communicated an intention to expand land use.

The proposed landing zones are on the western slope of Mauna Kea. Equipment at various locations within a five-mile radius will monitor noise as Army aircraft fly from Pohakuloa Training Area and briefly touch down.

Researchers on the ground will watch for impact on natural resources.

The Army says flights will not take place on holidays or weekends.